TRADE NEWS: Detroit Lions Find Their Long-Term Answer at Right Guard to Replace Kevin Zeitler
Last season, the Detroit Lions boasted the league’s most dominant offensive line. With Kevin Zeitler departing for the Tennessee Titans, they now need a new right guard to sustain their high level of play.
While the Lions could explore free agency or the 2025 NFL Draft to address this need, that won’t be necessary. They already have the perfect candidate on the roster—Christian Mahogany.
Mahogany Was Drafted in 2024
Detroit selected Mahogany in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft using a compensatory pick. The former Boston College standout started for three seasons but missed the 2022 campaign due to a torn ACL.
Many analysts projected Mahogany as a fourth-round pick, so landing him late in the sixth round was a steal for the Lions.
A Powerful Run Blocker
Mahogany’s college film showcases a physical, aggressive playing style. Though he had occasional inconsistencies in hand placement and footwork, his strength in the run game is undeniable. He fires off the snap with authority, generating significant movement against defensive linemen.
Scouts have described him as a “downhill mauler,” a label that fits his game perfectly. He excels at reaching the second level, where he engages linebackers and defensive backs with force, often driving them several yards before finishing the block.
Detroit values offensive linemen who play with intensity, seek contact, and finish their blocks through the whistle—qualities Mahogany possesses in abundance.
Exceptional Athleticism
Mahogany brings rare athleticism to the guard position, combining strength, explosiveness, and agility.
His movement skills are a perfect fit for Detroit’s scheme, which frequently asks linemen to pull across the formation for weak-side runs. The Lions also emphasize linemen helping at the line of scrimmage before moving downfield to block at deeper levels, a role Mahogany is well-suited for.
Impressive 2024 Performances
During his rookie season, Mahogany made two starts. The first came at left guard, filling in for an injured Graham Glasgow. Despite not playing the position since his freshman year, he held his own, with only a false start and a few minor mistakes marring an otherwise solid performance.
His second start came in the Divisional Playoff round against the Washington Commanders, stepping in for Zeitler. Although the Lions suffered a disappointing loss, Mahogany was a bright spot, especially in the run game. He earned a stellar 91.9 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus, showcasing his potential as a long-term starter.
Positioned for Success
Detroit’s offensive scheme plays to Mahogany’s strengths. The Lions prioritize the run game, using it to open up play-action passes. This approach benefits Mahogany, allowing him to utilize his power and mobility in run blocking while minimizing exposure to pass-rushing threats.
He is also in excellent hands developmentally. Offensive line coach Hank Fraley, a former standout interior lineman himself, has a strong track record of coaching young talent. Under his guidance, Penei Sewell has blossomed into one of the league’s premier tackles, and Mahogany is in line for similar growth.
Additionally, Mahogany will be surrounded by top-tier talent, positioned between two of the NFL’s best offensive linemen—Sewell and veteran center Frank Ragnow.
Mahogany Is Ready for the Challenge
While the Lions have some depth concerns on the interior offensive line, with Glasgow aging and limited reinforcements behind the starters, replacing Zeitler isn’t a worry. Christian Mahogany is ready to take on the role and solidify his place as a key piece of Detroit’s future.
